Abuelo’s Cilantro Lime Soup, also known as “Sopa de Lima” in Mexican cuisine, is a flavorful and refreshing soup that combines the vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime with the heartiness of chicken broth and other ingredients. It’s a popular dish in the Yucatán region of Mexico, and its history can be traced back to Mayan and Spanish influences.
Components:
- Chicken: The soup typically includes cooked and shredded chicken, which adds protein and substance to the dish.
- Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a key ingredient that gives the soup its tangy and citrusy flavor.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro leaves are added for their fresh and herbaceous taste.
- Vegetables: Onions, garlic, and sometimes bell peppers are sautéed to provide depth of flavor.
- Broth: Chicken broth serves as the base of the soup, imparting a savory taste.
- Seasonings: Various seasonings such as cumin, oregano, and bay leaves are used to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Tortilla Strips: Thin strips of corn tortillas are often fried until crispy and used as a garnish.
Steps to Prepare:
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken. Chop the onions, garlic, cilantro, and bell peppers if using.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Vegetables: If using bell peppers, add them to the pot and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cooked shredded chicken to the pot.
- Season: Add seasonings like cumin, oregano, and bay leaves to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Lime Juice: Just before serving, stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice. Lime juice is typically added at the end to preserve its vibrant flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with chopped cilantro and crispy tortilla strips.
Time Needed:
- Preparation: The preparation time can vary depending on factors like the cooking skills of the individual and the availability of pre-cooked chicken. On average, it might take around 20-30 minutes to prepare the ingredients.
- Cooking: The cooking time for simmering the soup is about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Total: Overall, you can expect to spend around 40 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish.
Enjoy your delicious Abuelo’s Cilantro Lime Soup, a wonderful blend of flavors that offers a taste of Mexican cuisine’s rich heritage!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Abuelo’s Cilantro Lime Soup:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Typical Serving):
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: Around 150-200 calories
- Total Fat: 7-10g
- Saturated Fat: 2-3g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 600-800mg (varies based on broth and seasoning)
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 12-15g
- Vitamin C: A good source due to lime and bell peppers
- Iron: Moderate amounts from chicken and vegetables
Health Information:
- Protein: The soup contains a decent amount of protein from the chicken, which is important for muscle maintenance and overall body functions.
- Vitamin C: Lime juice and bell peppers contribute to the vitamin C content, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
- Hydration: The high water content in the soup helps with hydration, especially if made with a clear broth.
- Low Sugar: The soup is generally low in added sugars, making it suitable for those watching their sugar intake.
- Moderate Fat: The soup contains some fat, which can contribute to satiety and flavor, but it’s important to choose healthy fats when possible.
- Sodium Awareness: Depending on the broth and seasonings used, the sodium content can vary. It’s good to be mindful of sodium intake, especially if you’re watching your blood pressure.
- Vegetable Intake: If the soup includes bell peppers and other vegetables, it’s a good way to increase your vegetable intake.
Remember that specific nutrition values can vary based on the exact recipe and portion size. If you have any specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s advisable to consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized guidance.
